I'm Just Sayin'

Talkin' Super Bowl with Jerry Thornton

2012-01-27T13:20:00.000-05:00

Barstool Sports' Jerry Thornton joined Friday's show to discuss Super Bowl 46. Watch on Ustream:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Fathead Super Bowl Challenge

2012-01-26T11:43:00.004-05:00

Fathead is now an official partner of "I'm Just Sayin", which can be seen every weekday at 9 a.m. ET on Ustream.

And beginning Thursday, Jan. 26, we will be giving a away a Tom Brady and Eli Manning Fathead, in the "I'm Just Sayin" Super Bowl Challenge.

Here's how to win: Listen to the five audio clips played on "I'm Just Sayin" (either the LIVE or archived show), and tweet me @DannyPicard with the five people who are speaking in the five Super Bowl postgame interviews that are played.

UPDATED: Congrats to @Napkins_MD for guessing Thursday's five audio clips correctly. He chose to take the Eli Manning Fathead.

On Friday, Jan. 27, five new audio clips will be played, with a Tom Brady Fathead up for grabs.

Here were the five Super Bowl audio clips from Thursday's show -- Day 1 of the Super Bowl Challenge:

UPDATED: Here are the five new audio clips from Friday's show, for a chance to win a Tom Brady Fathead:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Fielder signs with Tigers

2012-01-25T14:46:00.000-05:00

Comcast SportsNet MLB Insider Sean McAdam joined Wednesday's show to discuss Prince Fielder's impact in the American League, now that he's a Detroit Tiger. Plus, what's the next move for the Boston Red Sox this offseason? And Peyton Manning gave an exclusive interview on Tuesday. He sounds like a guy who's planning on playing elsewhere in 2012:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

"Dan Patrick Show" guest appearance

2012-01-24T22:00:00.000-05:00

I was a guest on "The Dan Patrick Show" again on Tuesday, and gave my take on Tim Thomas refusing to join his Boston Bruins teammates at the White House:

Thomas no-shows White House

2012-01-24T11:52:00.000-05:00

WFAN New York's Neil Keefe joined Tuesday's show to break down his football Giants before Super Bowl 46. Plus, Barstool Sports' Rear Admiral checked in with his take on Tim Thomas skipping out on the Boston Bruins' trip to the White House, and we both agree. Thomas should have been there:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Credit where credit's due

2012-01-23T11:40:00.003-05:00

Some are saying that the Baltimore Ravens lost Sunday's AFC Championship game more than the New England Patriots won it. On Monday's show, I argued why the Patriots' defense deserves credit for going out and winning the exact type of game that we never thought they could. Plus, Comcast SportsNet's Tom E. Curran joined me to discuss a Patriots/Giants Super Bowl rematch:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

AFC and NFC Championship predictions

2012-01-20T10:26:00.000-05:00

The NFL Network's Albert Breer joined Friday's show to give one final breakdown of the AFC and NFC Championship games. Plus, our predictions may surprise you:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Quarterback concerns?

2012-01-19T19:25:00.000-05:00

WFAN New York's Neil Keefe and NESN's Jeff Howe joined Thursday's show to talk NFL Playoffs. Plus, is Peyton Manning really retiring?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Tracking the MLB Hot Stove

2012-01-18T14:46:00.000-05:00

Comcast SportsNet MLB Insider Sean McAdam joined Wednesday's show to talk baseball. How will Yu Darvish impact where Prince Fielder could end up? Who's to blame for Carl Crawford's late surgery? And should we be making a bigger deal out of the Yankees trading for Michael Pineda? Also, my take on why the Celtics should NOT trade Paul Pierce:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Final Four in the NFL

2012-01-17T10:39:00.000-05:00

Comcast SportsNet's Mike Giardi joined Tuesday's show to talk NFL Playoffs. Plus, how about them New York Yankees?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

NFL Divisional Playoff Preview

2012-01-13T11:47:00.001-05:00

Yahoo! Sports columnist Dan Wetzel and Comcast SportsNet NFL Insider Tom E. Curran joined Friday's show to preview the weekend's playoff games. Plus, I explain why P.K. Subban's hit on David Krejci was clean. Watch on USTREAM:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Peyton Manning to New York?

2012-01-12T18:50:00.000-05:00

Anonymous New York Jets players are calling for Peyton Manning, but would he play in New York? Plus, there should be concern with the aging Celtics, Manny Ramirez attempts comeback, and Hulk Hogan shaves his mustache:

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Keith Yandle joins 'I'm Just Sayin'

2012-01-11T11:12:00.000-05:00

Phoenix Coyotes All Star defenseman Keith Yandle joined Wednesday's show to talk shootouts, Ilya Bryzgalov on 24/7, and a potential WWE appearance:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Talkin' NFL with Dan Shaughnessy

2012-01-10T16:43:00.000-05:00

Boston Globe columnist Dan Shaughnessy joined Tuesday's show to talk about the Patriots' hiring of Josh McDaniels, and the chances Denver has of upsetting New England. Plus, my take on who should be the National Champion in college football, and why the Brad Marchand 5-game suspension was excessive:

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Tebow wins with his arm

2012-01-09T17:37:00.001-05:00

NESN.com's Jeff Howe joined Monday's show to talk NFL playoffs. Plus, we let some more folks jump back onto the Tim Tebow bandwagon after his 300-plus yard performance:

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Madden '12 SuperBowl simulation

2012-01-06T12:49:00.000-05:00

Comcast SportsNet NFL Insider Tom E. Curran joined Friday's show to preview Wild Card weekend. Plus, Zach Farley from "This Week in Madden" joined the show and we revealed video footage of who won our Madden 12 SuperBowl 46 simulation. WARNING: You might not believe your eyes:

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Brian Boyle talks HBO 24/7

2012-01-05T11:11:00.000-05:00

New York Rangers forward Brian Boyle joined Thursday's show to talk HBO's 24/7, and the NFL Network's Albert Breer checked in with his picks for Wild Card weekend:

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Talkin' NHL with John Buccigross

2012-01-04T10:52:00.002-05:00

ESPN SportsCenter anchor John Buccigross joined Wednesday's show to talk about potential destinations for future Winter Classics, Sidney Crosby's potential return date, and his new blogumn on ESPN.com:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

2012: The year of "I'm Just Sayin"

2012-01-03T16:27:00.000-05:00

We had a minor miscommunication with ESPN's John Buccigross, who will now join WEDNESDAY's show. But Tuesday marked the "I'm Just Sayin" return from its holiday break. Topics included Andrew Luck, Peyton Manning, the NHL Winter Classic, and the NFL playoff picture:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Final show of 2011

2011-12-23T23:14:00.001-05:00

"I'm Just Sayin" takes a week off for the holiday season, and returns the first week of 2012. But Friday's show ended with some NBA and NFL talk. Plus, the Colts say Peyton Manning will play in Indianapolis next season. So what happens with Andrew Luck?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

NBA Season Preview and Predictions

2011-12-22T13:10:00.000-05:00

Boston Globe columnist Chris Gasper joined "I'm Just Sayin" to help with my official NBA Season Preview. Plus, don't miss my postseason predictions, and you may be surprised to hear who I pick to win the NBA MVP:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Talkin' MLB with Sean McAdam

2011-12-21T13:05:00.004-05:00

Comcast SportsNet MLB Insider Sean McAdam joined Wednesday's show to talk about baseball's offseason moves. Are the Red Sox any closer to finding a closer? And would Toronto be the best fit for Prince Fielder?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Rest Big Ben for playoffs

2011-12-20T21:30:00.000-05:00

Should the Pittsburgh Steelers have sat Big Ben on Monday night? And do the Patriots really ignore what's going on outside their locker room, like Tom Brady suggests? Plus, Barstool Sports' Rear Admiral joined Tuesday's show to talk Bruins and NHL:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Can the Patriots win with this defense?

2011-12-19T17:32:00.002-05:00

NESN.com Patriots beat writer Jeff Howe joined Monday's show to talk NFL. Plus, my take on this Patriots defense. If the playoffs began today, would this group be good enough to win?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Talkin' NFL with Jerry Thornton

2011-12-16T17:25:00.002-05:00

Barstool Sports' Jerry Thornton joined Friday's show to talk NFL. Will Tim Tebow work his magic against the Pats? And will Peyton Manning play in Indy next season?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Talkin' NFL with Tom E. Curran

2011-12-15T12:42:00.000-05:00

Comcast SportsNet NFL Insider Tom E. Curran joined Thursday's show to talk all things football. Plus, CP3's been traded to the Clippers, so are the Magic really keeping Dwight Howard? And is Mark Melancon the answer to the Red Sox empty closer's spot?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Will the Cubs sign Fielder?

2011-12-14T12:37:00.000-05:00

CSN Chicago's David Kaplan and CBS Boston's Dan Roche joined Wednesday's show to talk about some of the latest MLB offseason moves. Plus, Why are the Clippers stalling on a Chris Paul trade? And should James Harrison have been suspended?

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Westgarth looks to fire up Kings

2011-12-13T15:41:00.000-05:00

Los Angeles Kings enforcer Kevin Westgarth joined Tuesday's show prior to their game with the Bruins, and talked about dropping the gloves amidst a 4-game losing skid that saw their coach get fired. Plus, can the Seahawks make the NFL playoffs? Will Chris Paul finally get traded to LA? And are you more surprised that Pujols left St. Louis or that Ryan Braun failed a PED test?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Tebow-Mania continues

2011-12-12T22:21:00.002-05:00

The more Tim Tebow wins, the more I'm going to open "I'm Just Sayin" by Tebowing. Watch Monday's show as NFL Network's Albert Breer and Comcast SportsNet columnist Rich Levine joined me:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Should the NBA reject trades?

2011-12-09T19:00:00.000-05:00

Comcast SportsNet's Kyle Draper and Boston Globe columnist Chris Gasper joined Friday's show to discuss why the NBA rejected the Chris Paul trade to LA, and what it means for Dwight Howard. Plus, why would Albert Pujols choose the Angels?

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Will Hanley demand a trade?

2011-12-08T18:52:00.000-05:00

The Miami Marlins are on a spending spree. But did they upset Hanley Ramirez to the point where they'll now have to trade him? Watch my take on the circus that is the Miami Marlins:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

MLB Winter Meetings update

2011-12-07T17:02:00.000-05:00

WEEI.com MLB Insider Rob Bradford checks in from the Winter Meetings to talk about the baseball offseason. Plus, should Bruins fans be concerned about Tyler Seguin missing a team meeting? And has the Peyton Manning trade talk already started?

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Talkin' NHL with James Murphy

2011-12-06T16:58:00.000-05:00

ESPN.com NHL Insider James Murphy joined Tuesday's show to talk NHL realignment, a new CBA, Alex Ovechkin, steroids in NHL, and the streaking Boston Bruins:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Talkin' NFL with Tom E. Curran

2011-12-05T16:38:00.000-05:00

Comcast SportsNet NFL Insider Tom E. Curran joined Monday's show to talk football. Should the Patriots be concerned about their defense? Should the Bears sign McNabb? And can the Giants still win their division? Watch on USTREAM?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Talkin' NBA with Mike Gorman

2011-12-02T17:08:00.002-05:00

Celtics play-by-play announcer Mike Gorman joined Friday's show to discuss the latest NBA trade rumors and preview the upcoming season. NESN.com NFL Insider Jeff Howe also joined the show to preview Week 13. Plus, it's another installment of "Pic's Picks":

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Hold onto Rondo?

2011-12-01T11:20:00.000-05:00

Boston Globe columnist Dan Shaughnessy and Comcast SportsNet's Kyle Draper joined Thursday's show to discuss the recent NBA trade rumors. Plus, my take on why the Celtics can't trade Rajon Ronod for Chris Paul if Paul doesn't sign an extension:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Bobby V to Boston

2011-11-30T22:23:00.000-05:00

Bobby Valentine will be the new Red Sox manager, and Comcast SportsNet MLB Insider Sean McAdam joined Wednesday's show to discuss whether or not it's a good move for Boston:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

The NBA returns

2011-11-29T16:21:00.000-05:00

"I'm Just Sayin" returned from the holiday break, and Comcast SportsNet columnist Rich Levine joined Tuesday's show to discuss what we can expect from NBA free agency and the shortened season. Will Chris Paul or Dwight Howard be moved? Are the Celtics really trying to trade Rajon Rondo? And as for the NFL, are the New York Giants out of the playoff race?

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Talkin' NHL with John Buccigross

2011-11-22T18:28:00.000-05:00

ESPN SportsCenter anchor John Buccigross joined "I'm Just Sayin" on Tuesday to discuss Sidney Crosby's wild return, the Bruins' nine-game winning streak, and Bruce Boudreau's not-so-genius idea of trying to change Alex Ovechkin's style:

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Can Bears survive without Cutler?

2011-11-21T11:10:00.001-05:00

With Jay Cutler out for the rest of the regular season with a broken thumb on his throwing hand, can the Chicago Bears still make the playoffs in a cut throat NFC playoff race? Comcast SportsNet NFL Insider Tom E. Curran joined Monday's show to recap Week 11:

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Keith Yandle talks NHL and WWE

2011-11-18T21:17:00.001-05:00

Phoenix Coyotes defenseman and NHL All Star Keith Yandle joined Friday's show and gave his take on everything from seeing his hometown Bruins win the Stanley Cup, to his favorite WWE superstar:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

'Pic's Picks' for Week 11

2011-11-18T21:12:00.001-05:00

Every Friday, I take five NFL games of my choice and pick the winners with the spread. I'm 18-5 on the season. Here are my five picks for Week 11:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Praising Tim Tebow

2011-11-18T21:09:00.000-05:00

The more Tim Tebow wins, the more the critics and NFL analysts eat their words. And on Friday's show, I celebrate Tebow's big win over the New York Jets by giving my best Tebow impression:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Will the NBA cancel its 2011-12 season?

2011-11-16T16:58:00.001-05:00

Comcast SportsNet's Kyle Draper joined Wednesday's show to give his passionate take on the NBA lockout, and why he believes there won't be any professional basketball this season:

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Talkin' hockey with Mark Fayne

2011-11-15T22:34:00.001-05:00

New Jersey Devils defenseman Mark Fayne joined "I'm Just Sayin" to talk about his success against Martin Brodeur in practice, how to prepare for phenom Tyler Seguin, and his twitter account:

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Sandusky is a lying scumbag

2011-11-15T16:50:00.002-05:00

Jerry Sandusky spoke to Bob Costas on Monday night, and if you were able to watch it, you should realize that the guy is an even bigger creep than we could have ever imagined:

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Sox should have paid Papelbon

2011-11-14T22:44:00.001-05:00

Now that Jonathan Papelbon has signed with the Phillies, it's time to question the Red Sox, who may have a hard time finding another closer with the right mentality to succeed in Boston:

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Why did Patriots cut Haynesworth?

2011-11-09T19:40:00.001-05:00

Many are blaming Albert Haynesworth for not giving enough effort in New England, but in my opinion, "effort" is tough to question, and that wasn't why Bill Belichick released him:

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Are steroids an NHL issue?

2011-11-08T17:18:00.002-05:00

Are performance-enhancing drugs a problem in the National Hockey League? Former enforcer Georges Laraque says so in his new book, and another former NHL enforcer -- Chris "Knuckles" Nilan -- joined me on "I'm Just Sayin" to discuss the issue, and how it could affect the league's upcoming CBA talks:

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Defending Tim Tebow

2011-11-07T20:34:00.004-05:00

NFL analysts once made me hate Tim Tebow, but now, they've turned me into his biggest fan:

Tune into the nationally-recognized sports-talk show "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on USTREAM, BlogTalkRadio, & iTunes.

Officially 'featured' on USTREAM

2011-10-26T18:10:00.003-04:00

"I'm Just Sayin" can be seen every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET, and now, is a featured show on USTREAM

Every episode is automatically archived on USTREAM and iTunes.

For more information on every show, follow me on Twitter, and become a fan on FaceBook.

Talkin' hockey with Chris "Knuckles" Nilan

2011-10-18T18:43:00.001-04:00

Former NHL enforcer Chris "Knuckles" Nilan joined "I'm Just Sayin" on Tuesday to talk about Don Cherry's apology, the future of fighting in the NHL, and the Boston Bruins' chances of repeating as Cup champs:

Tune into "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday LIVE at 9 a.m. ET on Ustream, BlogTalkRadio, and iTunes.

Talkin' hockey with Brian Boyle

2011-10-12T20:09:00.003-04:00

New York Rangers forward and Massachusetts native Brian Boyle joined "I'm Just Sayin" on Wednesday, and talked about his reaction to the Bruins' championship, his Rangers' chances at a Cup run, and his upcoming appearance on HBO's 24/7

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Arroyo to be 'surprised' if Epstein leaves Boston

2011-10-05T10:59:00.003-04:00

Former Red Sox and current Cincinnati Reds pitcher Bronson Arroyo joined "I'm Just Sayin" on Wednesday, and gave his take on everything from where Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols could end up next year, to where he thinks Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein will be in 2012:

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Be sure to tune into "I'm Just Sayin" every weekday at 9 a.m. ET on Ustream and BlogTalkRadio. To see Wenesday's show in its entirety, click play below:

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I'm Just Sayin' - 10/4/11

2011-10-04T21:31:00.001-04:00

Comcast SportsNet New England's Mike Giardi joined me on Tuesday's show to talk Red Sox and Patriots. Tune in LIVE every weekday at 9 am ET on Ustream & BlogTalkRadio:

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I'm Just Sayin' re-launch

2011-10-03T19:55:00.002-04:00

It's official, "I'm Just Sayin" is back on the air, every weekday from 9-10 a.m. ET on Ustream and BlogTalkRadio

Micky Ward was Monday's special guest. He talked about his preseason experience with Bill Belichick and the Patriots, and gave his take on Floyd Mayweather's KO of Victor Ortiz. You won't want to miss what he had to say:

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Cup of Hope

2011-07-17T20:40:00.003-04:00

(The following feature was taken from CSNNE.com):

By Danny Picard

CSNNE.com

SOUTH BOSTON – The first time I kissed the Stanley Cup was in 1994.

South Boston’s own Brian Noonan won it with the New York Rangers, and brought it home for the rest of the neighborhood to enjoy.

Perhaps “enjoy” isn’t the right word. If you’ve ever been in the same room as the Cup, then you know what I’m talking about.

I’ve been fortunate enough to be in the same room as the Stanley Cup twice now, after it made its way to L Street Tavern in my hometown of South Boston last Wednesday night.

It was the first time the damn thing graced the streets of Southie since 1994, thanks to the Bruins’ remarkable championship run.

There weren’t any players with it, though. The actual Bruins themselves didn’t bring it to Southie during their multinight binge on the town. Instead, they took it to Charlestown, the North End, and Foxwoods.

Maybe I’m missing a few stops along the way. But the point being, they never brought it to Southie, and unless some of my Dot-rat friends were sworn into complete secrecy, they never brought the Cup to Dorchester either.

As two hockey-crazed communities, both deserved a chance to see the Cup up close and in person.

Luckily for my community of South Boston, we had our night with it on Wednesday.

It capped a two-week Cup-hunt throughout the city, a two-week period in which the only Cup me and my friends could get a picture of, was with the life-sized inflatable Stanley Cup we purchased online during the Finals.

It showed up in the mail the morning of Game 7. It was immediately inflated, and put in a closet, only to be revealed to the rest of the party if the Bruins were hoisting the actual, 35 pound trophy at the end of the game.

The moment Brad Marchand’s empty netter made it 4-0, the inflatable Cup came out, and it went everywhere our crew went. Castle Island, M Street beach, L Street Tavern, Atlantic Beer Garden. If we were there, the inflatable Stanley Cup was with us.

That’s another reason why the Cup is so special. I mean, do they even make an inflatable Lombardi Trophy? And if they did, would you even want to be seen carrying it around down the beach or at a bar?

Sure, laugh about how childish an inflatable Stanley Cup may seem, especially for a bunch of Southie kids in their mid-to-late 20’s to be taking it with them everywhere they go. But I’m willing to guarantee that if you were around it, you’d be the first to come over and ask to hoist it for a picture.

I can actually remember telling my mother that I felt like I, personally, won the Stanley Cup, with the way people were gravitating to the 2-pound balloon in local establishments.

It was all in good fun of course, but people in Southie wanted to spend a few moments with the actual Cup so badly, that they were willing to settle for our party toy.

In the weeks following the Bruins’ Game 7 win, my crew was tipped off and we were told to make our way to several local establishments in which the real Stanley Cup would “possibly” be showing up.

While coming from reliable sources, none of those tips ever led us to Lord Stanley. And I must admit, being part of these “Cup hunts” was sometimes difficult, because I am an active member of the Boston media.

When I’m on the clock, I do my job. But I’ll never lose my passion for the sport of hockey. That would be a sin.

I grew up in South Boston, a place where your skates are laced up and you’re thrown onto the ice down the little rink with Arnie’s Army at the age of 6, learning to walk on water, whether you like it or not. Most continue to love it and play for years, like myself. It’s a way of life in our neighborhood, our 11th commandment if you will.

You play every day in the winter, and spend summer mornings inside a rink for one reason: to eventually win a Stanley Cup. And when you realize that dream is dead, you hope for a friend or for your local team to carry out that dream for you.

So my passion for hockey isn’t going anywhere. And therefore, neither is my passion for the Bruins, or even for the Stanley Cup.

The same goes for the entire community. And I’m sure that passion is no different in other hockey-crazed towns throughout New England. But I’m only in one place at one time. And when the Bruins won the Stanley Cup, I was only in South Boston.

For two weeks that followed, the only Cup sighting in Southie was our inflatable one, until this past Wednesday night, when a “tip from a source” finally paid off, and Lord Stanley finally made its way through the back door at L Street Tavern, or as we locals call it, “Striggies.”

And as “the Cup guy” (isn’t that what everyone calls him?) carried the shiny trophy to the back of the bar with his white gloves on, there wasn’t one person whose eyes didn’t light up.

That’s what the Stanley Cup does. It lights up a room like no other physical object in the history of the world.

For every minute spent with it, nothing else matters. Personal issues, everyday stress, it’s all blocked out. It’s just you and the Cup. And it’s a feeling that simply can’t be described to perfection.

The first time I saw the Stanley Cup in person, I was 11 years old. My mother came out front and told me and my friend Ryan Sweeney to get on our bikes and head to the old Abbey (a local Southie bar that is now closed), where our fathers were drinking out of the Cup, courtesy of Brian Noonan.

So off I went on my black spray-painted Huffy White Heat, my San Jose Sharks hat (I loved their unis), and a feeling of overwhelming excitement. It was the same feeling I had last Wednesday night, when someone inside L Street Tavern yelled, “It’s here!”

The Cup had arrived back in Southie for the first time since 1994. And for the short period of time that we got to spend with it, nobody in the place had any other care in the world.

And while the multiple pictures I took with the Cup are priceless, it was even more fulfilling to witness the rest of the neighborhood experience what I had already experienced as an 11-year-old kid who didn’t yet know just how to appreciate someone else’s bliss.

As I looked around L Street Tavern, I realized that this Stanley Cup meant so much more to this city than I had ever imagined. It was the missing piece in many people’s lives. It was more than just a flashy trophy you could drink out of.

It was a sign of hope.

The same sign of hope that younger Southie kids showed when they wouldn’t even touch our inflatable Cup, thinking that it would jinx their chances of winning the real thing one day.

The same sign of hope that Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli showed when he signed a 35-year-old goaltender to a 4-year, $20 million deal, thinking that he’d one day lead the B’s to the promised land.

The same sign of hope that Nathan Horton showed when he brought melted TD Garden ice with him to Vancouver in a water bottle, and dumped it in front of his bench before Game 7, thinking that it would cure Boston’s road woes.

The same sign of hope that me and my friends showed by hanging around our local bar until 11 p.m. on a Wednesday night, thinking that the Stanley Cup would eventually show up, when there were no guarantees it would.

As it turns out, the Cup showed up, and hope was fulfilled.

So I kissed it again.

Talkin' Stanley Cup on 'The Dan Patrick Show'

2011-06-14T23:12:00.006-04:00

Here's my latest appearance on "The Dan Patrick Show" . . . this time with special guest host Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated, as we talk talk Stanley Cup Final:

Danny Picard on 'The Dan Patrick Show'

2011-02-11T16:43:00.004-05:00

Check out my appearance on "The Dan Patrick Show" on Thursday:

Bring him back

2010-11-02T15:46:00.005-04:00

Randy Moss wanted out of New England just one month ago, but after being released by the Minnesota Vikings, the controversial wide receiver should get a look from the Patriots if he clears waivers

Did Randy Moss know this was coming?

Following Sunday's loss to New England at Gillette Stadium, in which Moss only had one reception for eight yards and was only targeted twice, the former Patriots receiver not only lashed out at his own teammates and coaching staff, but he also went out of his way to throw high praise at New England's entire organization.

He called Bill Belichick the "best coach in football history" and proclaimed his love for all of his former Patriots teammates, while donning a Red Sox cap.

Two days later, the Vikings officially put Moss on waivers.

Now, teams have 24 hours to put a claim in on Moss. The team with the worst record that claims him will then acquire Moss and the remaining $3.39 million of his 2010 salary.

But there's a chance that nobody puts in a claim, meaning that Moss would be able to sign with any team he wants. In that instance, Minnesota would still owe Moss his $3.39 million, and the team that signs him would only have to pay $450,000.

If it ever got to that point, where Moss cleared waivers and could sign with the team of his choice for an ever-so-low total of $450, 000, he made it pretty clear after Sunday's game that he wants to come back to New England.

There are some media members and fans that don't want to even give that thought -- Moss returning to New England -- a shot. They already have their opinions on Moss, about how he ruins teams and is nothing but a headache.

To them, Moss being released by the Vikings is just another example of that, and there's nothing else to this story.

It's the bed that Moss made for himself a long time ago during his first stint in Minnesota. It continued in Oakland. And now, some believe his "me-first" vibe took its course with the Patriots and Vikings all in the same season.

But those people don't want to look at the situations at hand. They just want to look at the person. They see Moss, and they see a selfish, destructive character. Again, it's what Moss once was, that leads them to believe this type of selfish, destructive character still exists within.

And maybe it does. Maybe it existed last Friday, when Moss reportedly caused a scene and criticized a post-practice meal at a local Minnesota restaurant. Maybe it existed when he returned to Minnesota, only to learn that his coach and quarterback didn't agree on much at all. Maybe it existed when his teammates and coaches didn't listen to his tips on what the Patriots would do against them on Sunday. Maybe.

But one thing is for sure. It didn't exist after Sunday's game when he praised the Patriots. It didn't exist when he said he had "missed the hell" out of them. It didn't exist when he "saluted" the best coach in "football history."

But again, it's all situational. For three seasons and change, Moss wasn't an issue in New England. Why? Because he was in a good situation.

The Patriots traded him because he asked for it. Moss asked for a trade because the Patriots told him they weren't going to sign him after the season, when he becomes a free agent. The Patriots told him they weren't going to sign him because their offense is evolving and his skills are diminishing.

Moss didn't like his role in that "evolving" offense because it's a contract year, and will probably be the last chance of his career to sign a big deal. And what type of contract would Moss get if he was used as a decoy all season in New England?

So Moss and Belichick got together after the Week 4 Miami game, and they decided it would be best for each party to part ways. The Patriots would get a third-round draft pick, and be able to bring back a guy in Deion Branch who knows the offensive system that the team was trying to get back to. Moss would be able to go put up big numbers in a high-powered Minnesota offense that consisted of quarterback Brett Favre and running back Adrian Peterson, all while being a Super Bowl contender, and raising his price tag for the upcoming offseason.

Everyone wins.

Fast forward to four weeks later, and the only party winning is New England. The Vikings are 2-5. Their coach and quarterback don't see eye-to-eye. And even worse for Moss? They're using him as a decoy. The same way the Patriots began to use him, at times, through the first four weeks of the season.

And just like in New England, that type of double-coverage and help over-the-top that defenses use against Moss had opened up Percy Harvin's game, and as Favre put it after Sunday's loss, had made Harvin a "better player."

"He's gotten a coverage that is going to allow him to win," said Favre. "And we're doing some things from a route standpoint, by Randy's coverage, what he's drawing, it's enabling our other guys to get open. And I think that's one of the things I know that New England had done with him.

"[Moss] isn't going to catch 10-12 passes a game," added Favre. "That's not, I mean, he could, but it's what he does to the underneath coverage. And I think we're doing a pretty decent job of taking advantage of that."

Two days later, Moss is put on waivers. Teams have 24 hours to put in a claim. If everybody passes, Moss can go wherever he wants, as long as that team will accept him for $450,000.

And judging from his postgame comments on Sunday, he wants to return to New England. What you saw in that press conference, was a man who had realized that, at this point in his career, being a decoy maybe isn't such a bad thing after all. Moss sounded like a man of regret. He was a veteran who was willing to accept his role.

But if you're going to swallow your pride and be a decoy, why not do it on a 6-1 team that has a chance of winning a Super Bowl? Why not be a decoy for players that you love and miss the hell out of?

That's what Moss wants. He wants to accept his role. But he also wants to win. And after seeing how Minnesota used him, and after coming to grips with that "decoy" role, it would be in Moss' best interest to take off and run with it.

Because at the end of the day, that's what this is all about. It's about Moss' contract after this season. If it wasn't, Moss would have never been traded from the Patriots. And believe it or not, New England would still be 6-1.

Moss wants a new deal. Accepting his new role gives him the opportunity to go to teams in the offseason and tell them that he's the best decoy in the league, and that nobody in the NFL attracts double coverage and opens up other receivers better than he does.

It's something that Moss now has to do. And believe it or not, he has everything to lose. Because of that, the Patriots should bring him back, if he clears waivers.

Moss already grew up once in New England. It would be in his best interest to do so again.

Danny Picard is on Twitter @DannyPicard

Wanting back in

2010-10-31T22:57:00.007-04:00

Randy Moss confessed his love for the Patriots after losing to them on Sunday at Gillette Stadium, and in the process, admitted that asking out of New England for 'business' purposes, was perhaps a big mistake

Here's my story from Moss' postgame press conference on Sunday, taken from CSNNE.com:

By Danny Picard
CSNNE.com

FOXBORO -- Randy Moss walked into his postgame press conference wearing an all-black Red Sox hat.

The notion, three weeks ago, was that Moss wanted out of New England and that's why he was traded to the Minnesota Vikings for a third-round draft pick. But following Sunday's 28-18 loss to the Patriots at Gillette Stadium, Moss -- praising his former teammates, calling Bill Belichick "the best coach in football history" and saying he was brought to tears when the fans cheered him after the game -- sounded like anything but a guy who wanted a change of scenery.

Moss finished the game with only one reception for eight yards. The catch didn't come until the third quarter. And he was only targeted twice the entire afternoon.

Vikings quarterback Brett Favre said after the game that Randy Moss "isn't going to catch 10-12 passes a game" and that his presence, while being double-covered, has opened things up for Percy Harvin and has made Harvin a "better player."

That's the same type of strategy that some believed forced him to demand a trade out of New England. The idea that he was going to be used as nothing more than a decoy, and was only going to be targeted once or twice a game (like his last in a Patriots uniform, when he was only targeted once in Miami), during a contract year, was ludicrous, in his eyes.

But after being used the exact same way on Sunday against his former team, an emotional Moss poured his heart out to the same New England Patriots organization that he had asked to be traded from just weeks ago, while trying to keep his composure throughout the postgame press conference.

"I miss them guys, man. I miss the team," said Moss. "It was hard for me to come here and play. It's been an up-and-down roller coaster, emotionally, all week. And then to be able to come in here and see those guys run the plays that I know what they're doing, the success they had on the field, the running game. So I kind of know what type of feeling they had in their locker room, and I just want to be able to tell the guys that I miss the hell out of them, every last helmet in that locker room, man.

"Coach [Bill] Belichick, he gave me an opportunity to be a part of something special, and that's something I really take to heart. I actually salute Coach Belichick and his team for success they've had before me, during me, and after me.

"So I'm actually stuck for words, just because of the fact that, man, it's just a lot of memories here," added Moss. "And to the New England Patriots fans, that ovation at the end of the game" -- fans cheered Moss as he left the field, prompting him to go to the sidelines and wave to them -- "that really felt heart-warming. I think I actually shed a tear for that."

Moss sounded like a guy who wanted to be on the other side. Not just the winning side, but any side that the Patriots were on.

And to be fair, Moss has never criticized the Patriots organization. In his eyes, the trade was "strictly business." Nothing more, nothing less.

But on Sunday, Moss left New England with a salute and a Sox cap, and showed a whole lot more love to the same team that he didn't want to be a part of three weeks ago. He did so, while throwing a few jabs at his current Vikings team about how Sunday's game was played and coached.

"I tried to prepare," said Moss, who also disagreed with Brad Childress' decision to go for it on 4th-and-1 from the Patriots 1-yard line at the end of the first half. "I tried to talk to the players and coaches about how this game was going to be played, a couple tendencies here, a couple tendencies there. But the bad part about it, you have six days to prepare for a team, and on the seventh day, that Sunday, meaning today, I guess they come over to me and say, 'Dang Moss, you was right about this, about a couple plays and a couple schemes that they were gonna run.'

"It hurts, as a player, that you put a lot of hard work in all week, and toward the end of the week, Sunday, when you get on the field, that's when they acknowledge about the hard work you put in throughout the week. So it's actually a disappointment."

He said all this, while praising the Patriots for the way they handle their business on Sundays.

"All I can say is, man, it's a lot of work that we leave on the field each day," said Moss. "There's a lot of film study that we leave in that room each day. I know how hard these guys work here in New England. And the only thing that I really tried to do was, take what the best coach in football history has brought upon me, or the knowledge that he's given me about the game of football, and I tried to just sprinkle enough to the guys the best way I know how."

He's tried. But on Sunday, Moss realized that maybe asking out was a mistake. That maybe, being used as a decoy wasn't something that was just going to happen in New England. And that if he was going to be used as a decoy in his contract year, he might as well have been a decoy on a 6-1 Patriots team, and not on a 2-5 Vikings team that doesn't listen to his advice and has a quarterback and coach that don't really see eye-to-eye.

Moss isn't walking back through that door. And because of that, he realizes that maybe he messed up.

"I don't know how many more times I'm going to be up here in New England, but I'm [leaving] the New England Patriots and Coach Belichick, man, with a salute, man," said Moss as he concluded his five-minute statement to the media without taking questions. "I love you guys. I miss ya'll. I'm out."

Solid start

2010-10-27T17:58:00.007-04:00

The Celtics defeated the Miami Heat in Tuesday night's season-opener at the TD Garden, and the NBA's new 'Big Three' showed signs of concern in Miami

It wasn't anything that Heat fans should be too worried about. But I'm not going to lie, it was worse than I thought it would look, even if it was the first time LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh played together.

Still, you have to think that things will work out eventually in Miami, as Wednesday's webcast guest -- The Boston Herald's Dan Duggan -- put it, the Heat are going to "beat the crap out of teams" this season.

They just couldn't do it in Boston.

Duggan -- the Herald's Celtics beat writer -- joined me on Wednesday's webcast to break down the C's big win, and he agrees that Glen Davis should continue to get more minutes than Shaquille O'Neal, like he did on Tuesday night.

Also on Wednesday's show, Randy Moss returns to New England on Sunday, so what type of reaction should he get? Plus, former Bruin Phil Kessel returns to Boston on Thursday, and he already has seven goals on the young season. So why aren't we talking about it? Two words: Nathan Horton.

Listen to Wednesday's webcast by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

There for the taking?

2010-10-21T14:33:00.005-04:00

Watching Cliff Lee dominate in the postseason -- and knowing that he could be in pinstripes next year -- should make Red Sox fans yearn for an offseason upgrade of their own, and perhaps Adrian Gonzalez would be just that

But the question remains, will San Diego trade the affordable power-hitting first baseman?

If anyone has the young talent to make a deal for Adrian Gonzalez, it's the Red Sox.

WEEI.com's Rob Bradford joined me on Thursday's webcast to talk about the Red Sox offseason, and the moves they will and won't make.

Also on Thursday's show, CSNNE.com's Joe Haggerty checked in to talk about the Bruins' goaltender competition. And should the legendary Rene Rancourt feel disrespected with the B's rolling out Steven Tyler to sing the National Anthem in Thursday's home opener at the TD Garden?

That, and I put an end to the "new" head-shot argument in the NFL. Let's just play the games and see how much this really affects the league. After all, nobody said you can't make big hits anymore. You just can't go head-to-head. But it's always been like that. The NFL is just stepping up its threat level, to try and prevent it. What's the big deal?

Listen to Thursday's webcast by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Big plans brewing?

2010-10-18T18:14:00.005-04:00

The Red Sox will reportedly resume talks with the San Diego Padres for power-hitting first baseman Adrian Gonzalez this winter, and if they're able to make a trade work, expect a hard run at free agent outfielder Carl Crawford

Assuming that Jacoby Ellsbury would be part of a trade package sent to San Diego in exchange for Adrian Gonzalez, the Red Sox would be in need of a speedy outfielder.

Carl Crawford is a free agent, and is expected to sign a big deal. Boston would be a perfect fit for him, even if Ellsbury isn't dealt.

But again, assuming that Ellsbury would be part of a Gonzalez-to-Boston deal, the Red Sox would almost have to go hard at Crawford.

Listen to Monday's webcast, as I talked about the Red Sox recent trade rumors. I also broke down Sunday's big overtime win for the Patriots, and why those in New England should still be cautious before buying their Super Bowl tickets in Dallas.

To listen to Monday's show, click here, or subscribe on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Back to the future

2010-10-17T22:09:00.005-04:00

Deion Branch made a difference in the Patriots' win over the Ravens on Sunday, but it was his post-game press conference that showed New England, and the rest of the league, that the Pats' newest receiver isn't Randy Moss

I mean, how can you not like Deion Branch?

The guy gets traded to the Seattle Seahawks in 2006 for a first-round draft pick, after the Patriots win back-to-back Super Bowls, and then gets traded back, only to be a difference-maker in his debut.

But it wasn't just his nine catches for 98 yards and a fourth-quarter touchdown that made an impression on me, Sunday.

It was what Branch had to say after the game that showed off his true character, and proved what he said in his re-introductory press conference earlier in the week, that he's not Randy Moss.

Don't just watch the video. Read my story from CSNNE.com on Branch's strong comments after the Patriots' 23-20 overtime win over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday at Gillette Stadium.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Mutual divorce

2010-10-08T15:48:00.005-04:00

The moment Randy Moss was traded to Minnesota on Wednesday, anyone with a pulse began to point fingers, but if you listen to what each party has to say about the deal, then you'll quickly understand why Moss was moved

Someone had to be the bad guy, right?

One of the league's best wide receivers doesn't get traded for a third-round draft pick, after Week 4, without there being an in-house issue, no?

At least, that was the initial reaction to hearing that Randy Moss was sent packing to Minnesota.

But was he sent packing, or did he ask out?

After hearing all parties (Patriots players, Belichick, and Moss) talk on Thursday, it should be pretty clear. Nobody played the role of evil villain.

Moss wasn't an issue in the locker room. Belichick wasn't being stubborn. The two just agreed to part ways, in what Vince Wilfork described as a "classic case of business" in the NFL.

In the never-ending search for an answer as to why Moss was traded, and how it all went down, I gave my complete and final theory on Friday's webcast.

Listen to Friday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Broken marriage

2010-10-06T14:31:00.012-04:00

Patriots players insist that Randy Moss wasn't an issue inside their locker room, but clearly, after Wednesday's trade that sent the team's No. 1 deep threat to Minnesota for nothing better than a third-round pick, New England's front office had a different opinion

It would appear, at first glance, that Randy Moss simply couldn't be contained by Bill Belichick for the remainder of the season. That being targeted only once in a Monday night game -- regardless of a 41-14 win against a division rival -- just wouldn't be enough for Moss to handle.

And perhaps it wasn't. Perhaps him and Belichick had words after Monday's win over the Dolphins.

Either way, Moss' teammates don't understand Wednesday's trade. Because now, Moss is once again a Minnesota Viking. And the Patriots? Well, they have another draft pick, a third-rounder, to be exact.

For the second-straight year, Patriots players have to watch one of their impact players pack up and leave after being shipped out of town. And for the second-straight year, nobody is being brought in to help.

Has Belichick's stubborn way of doing business started to work against him and the organization?

NESN.com's Patriots insider Jeff Howe joined me on Wednesday's webcast, and has some inside information on why Moss wasn't an issue in the locker room, and as a result, we both agree, this is a bad move for New England.

Listen to Wednesday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

More to prove

2010-10-05T15:32:00.003-04:00

Patrick Chung and the Patriots' special teams dominated in Monday night's 41-14 win over the Miami Dolphins, but that doesn't mean New England has turned the corner on their biggest issues

If you're banking on the Patriots' special teams to take over every game from here on out, then you're probably looking at an NFL postseason that includes only one team from the AFC East: the Jets.

Because if you think the Pats will see special teams play like Monday night, every Sunday, then you're just not being realistic.

Not to take anything away from New England's second-half surge, and dominant road win against the Miami Dolphins, but it just doesn't happen like that every weekend in the NFL.

At some point, Randy Moss needs to have at least one reception per game (Moss had zero catches on Monday night), and the Pats' defense will run into quarterbacks that aren't throwing up ducks on a consistent basis, like Chad Henne was on Monday.

Don't get me wrong, heading into a Week 5 bye, Monday night's win over the Dolphins was a big one. But the way it was won -- through dominant special teams play -- doesn't exactly lead me to believe this Patriots team should yet be crowned as the best in the division.

I broke down Monday's win on Tuesday's webcast, and ended with some more MLB Postseason discussion. Listen to Tuesday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

One last shot?

2010-10-04T15:20:00.002-04:00

Carl Crawford most likely won't be back in Tampa Bay next season, so this might be the Rays' best chance to win a World Series

The artists formerly known as the "Devil Rays" will have home-field advantage in their best-of-five American League Divisional Series against the Texas Rangers, beginning on Wednesday.

On paper, they're young and stacked. In reality, the paper reads true. The 2010 Tampa Bay Rays are young and stacked.

And by no means are they inexperienced.

Having lost to the Philadelphia Phillies in the World Series just two years ago, these Rays have been there before. And with some uncertainty in the roster after this season, this could be their best shot to win it all.

On Monday's webcast, I previewed the MLB Postseason, and gave my World Series predictions. Also on the show, NESN.com's Jeff Howe joined me to preview Monday night's game between the Patriots and Dolphins.

Everyone's picking Miami, except for me.

Listen to Monday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Emerging to the top

2010-09-27T16:26:00.002-04:00

With the Patriots' run game being non-existent through the first two weeks, the emergence of BenJarvus Green-Ellis on Sunday is a breath of fresh air to New England's offense

The Patriots' defense is still shaky. That's not an opinion. It's a fact.

But entering the season, we knew that Bill Belichick's offense was going to have to carry the load. However, not having a threat in the backfield was beginning to become an issue.

On Sunday, BenJarvus Green-Ellis made his case to become the Patriots' No. 1 running back.

To hear a complete breakdown of Sunday's 38-30 win over the Buffalo Bills, listen to Monday's webcast.

Also on the show, Marc Savard spoke to the media about his post-concussion syndrome on Saturday. What did it all mean?

Listen to Monday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Unhappy camper

2010-09-20T14:35:00.003-04:00

New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs doesn't want to be a backup, so it would only make sense for the New England Patriots to try and acquire him if he demands a trade

There were contradicting reports on Monday. One that said Brandon Jacobs wants out of New York, and another that said he has yet to request a trade.

Either way, the Giants power back has made it clear: he's not happy.

And seeing that the Patriots don't have any type of threat in the backfield (which was clearly evident in Sunday's loss to the Jets), New England would be a perfect fit for Jacobs.

I talked about the Pats' disappointing run game on Monday's webcast, and what can be done to improve it. Jacobs, if he does demand a trade, is on the top of my list.

Plus, where is Marc Savard? And is he really suffering from post-concussion syndrome?

Listen to Monday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes,

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Randy being Randy

2010-09-13T17:58:00.008-04:00

The Patriots defeated the Bengals in their season-opener on Sunday, and while everyone wants to talk about Randy Moss' post-game rant, they may want to watch this before getting too concerned

I first saw this video on BarStoolSports. It's footage of Randy Moss firing up the troops after a big win in Week 1, moments before his press conference, in which he went even more in-depth about feeling "not wanted" in New England because he doesn't have a contract after this season.

But by watching this video, it's clear. Moss isn't a distraction to the Patriots, proving my point on Monday's webcast, that we shouldn't be concerned about him acting up.

Reading Randy's mind

2010-09-13T14:23:00.005-04:00

Randy Moss' post-game comments about his future with the Patriots stole the spotlight away from Sunday's 38-24 win over the Cincinnati Bengals at Gillette Stadium, and some are concerned that this is just the beginning of an ugly season with a player who has a history of acting up when unhappy

If you did nothing more than read what Randy Moss had to say, you may not get the whole story. So do me a favor. Go back and look at the film. Do your homework. Watch video of Moss' post-game rant.

After watching it both live, and on my computer, I don't vehemently condemn Moss' actions on Sunday.

Sure, I don't think anybody believes that making those comments after a big, Week 1 win was the right time to do it. He could have done it last week. In fact, even today would have been a better time for it.

But before you attack him for his poor timing, please, take into account Moss' overall intentions, because there are only two.

First and foremost, Moss doesn't want this to be a long-term distraction. So he figures that if he's going to make his outcry for a new contract with the Patriots, he might as well do it now, rather than later in the season, when the team is focusing on a serious playoff push.

Second, you may be asking yourself, well is it even necessary to talk about this to the media at all? Sure, this could have been avoided. But this is Moss' way of calling out the Patriots. And don't act like this is the first example, in the history of the world, of the media being used to relay a message.

And that message is simple: Moss wants to stay in New England.

NESN.com's Jeff Howe joined me on Monday's webcast to talk about Moss' comments, and the latest developments in the Logan Mankins contract situation.

Listen to Monday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

2010 NFL preview

2010-09-10T15:00:00.002-04:00

Tom Brady has a new contract, and his offense looks to be dominant, but it remains to be seen whether or not New England's defense is good enough to help get him another ring

Here's the deal: four years, $72 million, with $48.5 million guaranteed. What's not guaranteed is a championship in his next five years as the Patriots' quarterback.

Will the Pats be any closer to a Super Bowl this season, the last year of Brady's current deal? Find out by reading both my and Patriots and complete NFL predictions for 2010.

I'll give you a hint on my projected Super Bowl champ. It ain't the Pats.

Contract Time

2010-09-07T14:15:00.005-04:00

Randy Moss feels unwanted in New England, and is just another NFL player who's felt the need to complain about his 'deal after the deal' . . . but it's time for the Patriots -- uncertain with the new CBA or not -- to prevent their star players from feeling this way

I know what you're thinking. The Patriots won Super Bowls without No. 81.

So to think that Randy Moss is irreplaceable, is sort of, well, not true. But would it hurt the Patriots to treat Moss as if he was just that?

Moss complained to CBSSports.com on Monday, and said that he feels "not wanted" by the Patriots' organization, while entering the last year of his current contract.

And as sick and tired as I am of having to hear a new NFL player complain about his "deal after the deal" every day, I do believe that it wouldn't hurt NFL clubs to take care of certain players. And in this case, it wouldn't hurt the Patriots to take care of Tom Brady and Moss.

Just like Pauly D has "t-shirt time" . . . it's "contract time" for Robert Kraft. Or is it Bobby K?

Either way, I discussed the situation (I swear, that's the last Jersey Shore reference) on Tuesday's show. Listen by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

No laughing matter

2010-09-03T14:18:00.006-04:00

Even though Laurence Maroney hasn't been running with the first team offense this preseason, the kid's been all smiles, but deep down inside, the former first-round pick has to be pissed off

Laurence Maroney is still the (expletive). Just ask him.

Only, he's kept the language clean this preseason, when describing himself as "the stuff."

But by looking at Bill Belichick's depth chart as of late, you'd be left to believe otherwise.

Maroney, 25, has been a full participant in preseason workouts for the Patriots so far, but he's yet to be used as the team's top running back. Instead, Belichick has gone with pretty much every other back on the roster throughout the preseason, leaving Maroney running with the backups.

But entering the last year of his contract, and being a 2006 first-round pick (21st overall), you'd think it would be in the Patriots' best interest, if they gave Maroney another shot as the team's No. 1 back.

Unlike a lot of people in New England, I had Maroney's back on Friday's show, and told you why he should be the team's go-to running back in Week 1 against the Cincinnati Bengals, regardless of what's happened in the preseason.

Listen by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Moving forward

2010-09-02T14:23:00.004-04:00

Sure, injuries to players like Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis hurt the Red Sox' chances of making the playoffs, but even when they're healthy for next season, the success of the team still rests on the five arms in the rotation

Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz, Josh Beckett, John Lackey, and Daisuke Matsuzaka are all returning to Boston in 2011. And since they, as a unit, were a disappointment in 2010, they'll be looked at once again to carry the load.

But not everybody is under contract. Some key players in the offense will be free agents at season's end.

Three of those players are Adrian Beltre, Victor Martinez, and David Ortiz ($12.5 million club option).

NESN.com's Tony Lee joined me on Thursday's show to preview a Red Sox offseason that's sure to be interesting.

Listen by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Not good enough

2010-09-01T15:34:00.001-04:00

Josh Beckett pitched pretty good on Tuesday night in Baltimore, but like his and John Lackey's entire season, 'pretty good' wasn't good enough to beat the Orioles, reassuring everyone in Boston that the 2010 season is indeed over

In case you were still holding out hope, after the weekend series in Tampa Bay, that the Red Sox were still in the playoff hunt, Tuesday night's 5-2 loss to Baltimore should have made it clear.

This team ain't making the playoffs.

And while Josh Beckett's seven-inning, three-run (two earned), five-strikeout performance may have been enough to give Boston a chance to win, it should leave you wanting more from the guy that once carried this team on his back to win a championship in 2007.

On Wednesday's show, I broke down the loss, and explained why Beckett's outing on Tuesday signified what the Red Sox' rotation didn't provide this season, in order to overcome a few serious injuries.

Also on Tuesday's show, NESN.com's Jeff Howe joined me to talk Patriots, and what cornerback Leigh Bodden's season-ending shoulder injury means for the team moving forward. And what exactly is Bill Belichick's strategy with running back Laurence Maroney?

Listen by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Necessary scratch

2010-08-26T15:53:00.004-04:00

Jon Lester was supposed to start against Seattle in the second game of Wednesday's double-header at Fenway Park, but even though Red Sox manager Terry Francona may have handed the Mariners a win by throwing Tim Wakefield on the mound instead, the move was made for all the right reasons

The Red Sox open up a crucial three-game series in Tampa Bay on Friday night. Because of Wednesday's juggled rotation, Jon Lester will now pitch the series opener, instead of Daisuke Matsuzaka.

I shouldn't be hearing any complaints.

Listen to Thursday's show to hear why I believe Terry Francona made the right move on Wednesday night, even if it cost his team a game.

Also on Thursday's show, NESN.com's Jeff Howe joined me to preview Thursday night's preseason game between the Patriots and Rams. And we both agree, all eyes are on Laurence Maroney.

Listen by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

All or nothing

2010-08-17T14:12:00.003-04:00

The Red Sox open up a nine-game home stand on Tuesday night, in which they'll host three non-playoff teams, and it's time for this stacked rotation to live up to its potential

Clay Buchholz will kick things off against Jered Weaver. But Buchholz should be the least of Red Sox fans' worries. It's the two starters in line to pitch behind him in the Angels series that have been a concern.

And who would have thought, before the season, that we'd be questioning John Lackey and Josh Beckett in mid-August?

Not me.

For now, forget about Jacoby Ellsbury. It's time for Lackey and Beckett to pitch like the aces they are, down the stretch. Doing so would show Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein that he wouldn't be wasting his money or prospects by adding a key reliever before the waiver deadline.

I talked about the Red Sox' upcoming home stand on Tuesday's show. I also talked about who to watch for on the Patriots as training camp officially comes to and end. And, Bruins center Marc Savard isn't happy with the team's front office. I don't blame him.

Listen to Tuesday's show in its entirety, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

*Tuesday's show is the last show of this week, as I'll be heading to Chicago for my buddy's bachelor party. Back next week.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Blame game

2010-08-13T14:12:00.003-04:00

Jonathan Papelbon blew a two-run, ninth-inning lead on Thursday afternoon in Toronto, putting his role as Red Sox closer in question

You have to win that game.

Now, the Red Sox find themselves in a series with the Texas Rangers, while the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays take on the lowly Kansas City Royals and Baltimore Orioles.

The most disturbing part, to most, is the fact that Jonathan Papelbon couldn't close out Thursday afternoon's game. These people have a right to be upset with the Red Sox closer.

And while I certainly put the blame on him, something does need to be said about John Lackey, and his inability to completely shut down the Blue Jays in the ninth, having thrown only 91 pitches to begin the inning.

Instead, Lackey let up a solo home run to Jose Bautista to begin the bottom of the ninth, forcing Red Sox manager Terry Francona to take Lackey out of the game, and replace him with Papelbon.

Lackey was pretty good on Thursday. But when is "pretty good" going to be "not good enough" for a guy that Boston brought in to perform like the ace he was in Los Angeles?

On Friday's show, I put some of the blame on Lackey as well, something that not many are doing while analyzing Thursday's disappointing and unnecessary loss.

CSNNE.com's Joe Haggerty joined me on Friday's show to talk about it. I also gave my impressions of the Patriots' preseason opener, a day after.

Listen to Friday's show in its entirety, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Hard Knock life

2010-08-12T14:47:00.005-04:00

Tom Brady and the New England Patriots aren't featured on HBO's hit football series this summer, but they do open up their preseason schedule against the defending champion New Orleans Saints on Thursday

It's been a long two weeks of training camp, but now, it's time to play. After taking a few weeks off my sports-talk show because of my Patriots training camp coverage for CSNNE.com, I returned on Thursday to talk everything from Tom Brady's contract negotiations to the Jersey Shore. That's right the Jersey Shore.

NESN.com's Jeff Howe joined me on the show to help preview Thursday night's Patriots game against the Saints, and he was even dedicated enough to put Madden '11 on pause, seriously.

Also on Thursday's agenda, the Red Sox are in the middle of a playoff run, and it's time for a healthy rotation to get them to the postseason.

Listen to Thursday's show in its entirety, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Training Camp Central

2010-08-05T14:33:00.004-04:00

Patriots coach Bill Belichick said on Wednesday that the "real" evaluation process in training camp begins later this week, and I'm here to cover it all for CSNNE.com

Yes, I've taken my freelance sports-writing duties to Patriots training camp at Gillette Stadium. I've been here all week, which is why you haven't been able to listen to my sports-talk show on BlogTalkRadio.com.

With two practice sessions each day, it's been impossible for me to host my show this week.

Believe me, my passion for hosting my own sports-talk show is probably greater than anyone you know, or have ever listened to. Problem is, most of those people you listen to get paid to talk sports.

I don't. I do it because I love it. I do it because, like I said, it's a passion of mine. But so is sports-writing. And right now, CSNNE.com is my priority.

I just felt the need to get that out there. I've received some feedback implying that I've given up on my broadcasting career, and on my show. I must say, that couldn't be further from the truth.

So the next time I'm not covering Patriots training camp for CSNNE.com, I'll be running I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com. Because, believe me, there's a whole hell of a lot that I need to get off my chest.

Buy or sell?

2010-07-26T14:06:00.004-04:00

As we get closer to the July 31 trade deadline, Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein has a decision to make, regarding which way he wants to finish up the last two months of the regular season

It would seem that the Red Sox have way too much talent to become sellers at this year's trade deadline. And with several key players returning from serious injuries, there's no way Theo Epstein and the rest of Boston's front office can decide to throw in the towel with two months of meaningful baseball left, right?

This year's Red Sox team has yet to play together completely healthy, and now that complete health is nearing its return, it would seem crazy to give up now. So no, I don't think the team should or will become sellers at the trade deadline.

Instead, they should make moves to improve the ball club, and make their best effort to contend for either the division or wild card.

Listen to Monday's show to hear what moves and phone calls I'd make if I were Boston's GM, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Opportunity lost

2010-07-21T14:03:00.004-04:00

With both the Yankees and Rays losing on Tuesday, the Red Sox had a golden opportunity to gain some ground in the division race, but a 10th-inning hiccup in Oakland resulted in a frustrating loss

Ramon Ramirez couldn't have picked a worse time to balk, sending to game-winning runner to second base.

From there, it was time to see what Triple-A call-up Michael Bowden had to offer in a big spot. As it turned out, not much, and the Athletics walked off with a 5-4 win.

Now, it's time for Clay Buchholz to make his return to the rotation, after spending the month of July on the disabled list. Josh Beckett will also return from the DL on Friday night in Seattle.

Is that enough to make this Red Sox team contenders once again?

Once Dustin Pedroia and Victor Martinez get back (don't worry, I realize Jacoby Ellsbury is still on the DL as well), the Sox will be a force in the American League East. But that doesn't mean they shouldn't inquire about a few power-hitting outfielders that may be available at the trade deadline.

Reports on Wednesday have the Philadelphia Phillies (who are seven games out of first in the National League East) trying to trade for Houston's Roy Oswalt. Those same reports have the Phillies needing a third team to get in the mix, with that third team taking upcoming free agent Jayson Werth off their hands.

Over the luxury tax threshold or not, the Red Sox should at least make a phone call. Even if their biggest need is a left-handed reliever.

Listen to Wednesday's show as I talked about that, and the NHL's recent attempt to reject the 17-year, $102 million deal that New Jersey signed Ilya Kovalchuk to. Like it or not, the Devils did nothing wrong.

Click here to listen to Wednesday's show in its entirety. Also, be sure to subscribe to I'm Just Sayin' on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Staying alive

2010-07-20T14:11:00.004-04:00

The Red Sox are looking to tread water until some of their star players get healthy, and Daisuke Matsuzaka did his part in Monday night's win over Oakland -- the first of a crucial 10-game road trip

So why is everyone on Boston sports radio talking about Tom Brady on Tuesday?

With the July 31 trade deadline sneaking up on us, the Red Sox are trying to make sure they can still be within striking distance of the division and/or wild card by the time guys like Clay Buchholz, Josh Beckett, Dustin Pedroia, and Victor Martinez (just to name a few) get back to the lineup.

Buchholz returns on Wednesday in Oakland, and Beckett is scheduled to return to Boston's rotation on Friday in Seattle.

In an effort to make sure it's not too late to make a playoff run by the time the team gets completely healthy, Tim Wakefield will make his most important start of the season in Oakland on Tuesday night against left-hander Dallas Braden.

So again, why does anyone want to talk about Tom Brady?

There wasn't any football talk on Tuesday's show. Listen in its entirety, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Beltre's got to play

2010-07-16T14:25:00.004-04:00

Adrian Beltre missed Thursday's game against the Texas Rangers with a left hamstring strain, but even if he's not 100 percent, the All-Star third baseman must man up and get back in the lineup on Friday

I don't usually do this in July, but Friday night's game is a must-win for Boston.

Entering the second of a four-game series against the Texas Rangers, the third-place Red Sox stand 5.5 games behind the New York Yankees for first place in the American League East. That's 3.5 games behind the second-place Tampa Bay Rays.

And after losing 7-2 to Texas on Thursday night, it doesn't get any easier for the Sox throughout the weekend at Fenway. With Triple-A call-up Felix Doubront on the hill for Boston on Friday, it's a game in which the offense must show up, against Colby Lewis.

Because on Saturday, dominant lefty Cliff Lee is on the mound, taking on Boston's John Lackey, who hasn't exactly been pitching like a Cy Young Award finalist this season.

Therefore, Friday is the game the Red Sox need to take, while having to tread water until their pitching staff can get completely healthy. And they'll need all the offense they can get, while Dustin Pedroia (broken left foot), Victor Martinez (broken left thumb), Jacoby Ellsbury (fractured ribs), and Jeremy Hermida (fractured ribs), Josh Beckett (back), Clay Buchholz (left hamstring strain), and Manny Delcarmen (right forearm strain) work their way back from injuries.

And Adrian Beltre is the guy I'm looking at to play through some pain.

Listen to Friday's show, as I explained why the second game of this series is a must-win, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Phantom foul ball costs Sox

2010-07-16T11:39:00.002-04:00

Tim Wakefield was lit up for six runs in the team's first inning back from the All-Star break on Thursday night, as the Texas Rangers took advantage of an awful call that seemingly changed the game

A foul tip is a foul tip. Michael Young, the second batter of the game, was called for one with one out in the first inning. He thought he struck out. So did everybody else. The blown call led to six Rangers runs in the first inning.

I was the only member of the Boston media to ask Red Sox manager Terry Francona and go over to the Texas clubhouse to ask Michael Young about the phantom foul ball that changed the game.

Read my story on CSNNE.com, following Thursday night's 7-2 Red Sox loss, to see what they had to say.

Wanted: lefty reliever

2010-07-07T15:05:00.003-04:00

Hideki Okajima used to be a reliable lefty -- against both right-handed and left-handed hitters -- but because of his struggles this season, the Boston Red Sox are in desperate need of a shutdown southpaw out of the bullpen

OK, so Dustin Richardson is also a left-handed reliever. But nobody out there actually believes the Triple-A call-up will be the answer to Boston's bullpen questions down the stretch, do they?

In a perfect world, Billy Wagner would still be with the team. He would have came into Tuesday night's game in Tampa Bay, and would not have allowed a solo home run to left-handed hitter Carl Crawford to lead off the bottom of the eighth, holding the Rays' to just a 2-1 lead.

But it's not a perfect world. Wagner wanted a larger role. He went to the Atlanta Braves to be their closer. He isn't going anywhere, because the Braves are in first place in the National League East. Instead, the Red Sox were left with Okajima to begin the eighth inning on Tuesday night, while trailing 2-1. And Crawford took him deep to give Tampa Bay a 3-1 lead.

It proved to be a crucial solo homer because Eric Patterson cut the Rays' lead to 3-2 in the top of the ninth, after he drove in Bill Hall with a two-out triple.

What transpired from there was questionable. Red Sox manager Terry Francona chose to have Mike Cameron pinch run for David Ortiz -- who was intentionally walked -- and let Triple-A call-up Niuman Romero hit with two outs and runners on first and third, trailing 3-2.

Francona could have had Cameron pinch hit for Romero, and had he drove in a run, he could have then put Cameron in center field, moved Patterson to second base, and put the versatile Hall at first, all while keeping David Ortiz at DH.

But that didn't happen. And even if Francona made those moves, who's to say that Cameron wouldn't have done exactly what Romero did -- ground out to end the game. We could sit here and argue Francona's ninth-inning decision all we want. But the difference in the game was Okajima's meatball to Crawford in the eighth.

Clearly, the Red Sox need a reliable lefty in the 'pen. And until management goes out and gets one, the blame can't be put on Tito.

On Wednesday's show, I broke down Tuesday night's loss in Tampa Bay. I also gave my thoughts on the recent LeBron James "announcement" special.

Listen by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Frustration setting in

2010-07-06T15:05:00.004-04:00

Daisuke Matsuzaka couldn't get out of the late jams he put himself in on Monday night in Tampa Bay, and if the Red Sox are going to contend for a playoff spot this season, they'll need their Japanese starter to get his act together quickly

Theo Epstein didn't pay Daisuke Matsuzaka big bucks so that he could slam his head against a wall every time it's Matsuzaka's turn in the rotation. But that's what it's turned out to be, as of late.

Overall, Matsuzaka hasn't been as bad as fans' frustration levels show when he's on the mound. Those frustration levels are so high simply because Matsuzaka's in-game issues cannot be explained.

On Monday night at the Trop, the Japanese starter got out of more first-inning trouble, but couldn't save himself in the fifth and the sixth innings, blowing a 5-1 lead in the process.

We learned a few things about the Red Sox' needs (both short-term and long-term) in Monday night's 6-5 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, which helped the Rays leap-frog Boston for second place in the American League East standings.

Listen to Tuesday's show to hear what those needs are, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

When health returns

2010-07-05T14:15:00.000-04:00

Josh Beckett hasn't pitched for the Red Sox since May 18, and the sooner he returns from a lower back strain, the better off Boston will be for its second-half run in the American League East

I took a look at where the Red Sox stand, midway through the season, on Monday's show, and what needs to happen in the second half in order to be playoff contenders.

Josh Beckett's health was on the top of that list. Clay Buchholz (left hamstring strain) and Manny Delcarmen (right forearm strain) are also health concerns. Either way, with injuries hitting the Red Sox hard in all areas, their pitching must get healthy and dominate in order for Boston to keep up with the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Rays in the division race.

Also on Monday's show, would it be such a bad thing for the Red Sox if Kevin Youkilis didn't get voted into the All Star Game by the fans? Some players could use the rest.

Listen to Monday's show in its entirety by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Opting out of Boston?

2010-06-30T18:20:00.002-04:00

Celtics captain Paul Pierce opted out of the last year of his contract that would have guaranteed him $21.5 million in 2010-11, but that doesn't mean he's leaving town

There was some breaking news during Wednesday's show, as reports had Doc Rivers returning to the Celtics for the final year of his contract.

My real-time reaction was that he would only return if Paul Pierce would be back, or if the Celtics had a back-up plan that wouldn't result in a setback to the organization.

Basically, Rivers isn't returning unless the C's can win next season. So common sense would tell you that, in fact, Pierce's opting out is nothing more than a way for him to sign a new deal with the Celtics now, rather than risk a worse contract next offseason.

But then you wonder if the Celtics would be better off letting Pierce walk, and taking a shot at one of the big-name free agents available beginning on July 1.

The Boston Herald's Dan Duggan explained on Wednesday's show that the Celtics would be wise to keep Pierce around. And the return of Rivers makes it seem like that will most likely be the case.

Listen to Wednesday's show by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Don't do it

2010-06-28T14:21:00.005-04:00

The addition of Tyler Seguin brings another centerman to the Boston Bruins offense, but if it comes down to either trading Marc Savard or moving the B's No. 2 overall pick to the wing, I'd choose the latter

Certainly, the Marc Savard trade rumors have more to do with a positional battle. The Bruins are up against the salary cap. Moving Savard's contract is just one option for a team that is now stacked at the center position, after selecting Tyler Seguin with the second-overall pick in Friday night's draft.

But it wouldn't be a wise decision to move Savard. Instead, trading Tim Thomas and his $5 million cap hit, followed by moving Seguin to the wing, would be in the Bruins' best interest.

Listen to Monday's show, as I reacted to the Savard trade rumors, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Shopping Perk?

2010-06-24T14:41:00.005-04:00

Rumors have the Celtics trying to trade Kendrick Perkins and their 19th overall pick in order to move up in Thursday night's NBA Draft, but making that type of move might not be up to Danny Ainge

The Celtics wouldn't trade Kendrick Perkins just for the sake of moving up in the draft. They'd only do it if it would land them a coveted big man.

Problem is, no team with a good enough pick to land that up-and-coming player would give it up so that they could receive Kendrick Perkins.

But nice try.

So Thursday night's NBA Draft will be somewhat of an appetizer to the forthcoming offseason decisions that need to be made within the Celtics' organization.

The Boston Herald's Dan Duggan joined me on Thursday's show to preview the NBA Draft, and discuss what's next for the C's.

Listen to Thursday's show in its entirety, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Unhappy ending

2010-06-18T16:50:00.001-04:00

You won't see much referee bashing on this site, in any sport, but after the fourth quarter of Game 7, the Lakers might want to give the officiating crew a share of their playoff bonus

I mean, sending the Lakers to the free-throw line 21 times in the fourth quarter of a Game 7? Did that actually happen? Aren't you supposed to eat the whistles in that situation?

And don't confuse this as being someone from Boston complaining about the refs just because his hometown team lost. I'd be just as upset about that fourth-quarter officiating had the Celtics taken 21 free throws in the final 12 minutes of the game.

That's no way to decide a championship. I don't care what team you're rooting for.

On Friday's show, I reacted to the Celtics' Game 7 loss. Also, hear my take on Manny Ramirez' return to Fenway, and what the fan reaction should be.

Listen to Friday's show in its entirety by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Who's to blame?

2010-06-15T17:19:00.003-04:00

Logan Mankins demanded a trade on Monday, claiming that the Patriots have greatly mishandled contract negotiations, but if reports that he turned down a five-year, $35 million deal are true, then it's hard to feel bad for the offensive lineman who was the only New England player not at mini-camp on Tuesday

NESN.com's Jeff Howe joined me on Tuesday's show to talk about the Mankins situation, and how Tom Brady may or may not be involved.

Also on Tuesday's show, which was earlier than usual because of my job covering Patriots mini-camp this week for CSNNE.com, I previewed Game 6 of the NBA Finals between the Celtics and Lakers.

Bottom line, the C's do not want to give Kobe Bryant a chance to win an NBA Championship in a Game 7 situation in Los Angeles.

Listen to Tuesday's show in its entirety, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Learn from the Finals

2010-06-10T17:36:00.001-04:00

Patrick Kane scored the overtime game-winner that gave the Chicago Blackhawks their first Stanley Cup since 1961, and if the Bruins' front office was paying attention, they'll have realized what they need to do this offseason

I talked about the Bruins' needs, after watching the Stanley Cup Finals, on Thursday's show. I also previewed Game 4 of the NBA Finals, and gave my reasoning as to why the Celtics will even the series at 2-2.

Plus, the buzz surrounding Stephen Strasburg brought back memories to when Pedro Martinez would light up Fenway Park. So please, spare me the complaints about his 14 strikeouts having come against the lowly Pittsburgh Pirates. It's still a tremendous debut.

Listen to Thursday's show in its entirety by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Challenge for Charity

2010-06-01T21:42:00.003-04:00

Inspired by his father at an early age, former Holy Cross basketball player John Hurley will hop on a bike and ride across the country this summer, honoring "The Farrell Sisters" and raising money for lung cancer research for 52 straight days

Beginning on June 5, my good friend John Hurley will depart from San Francisco, and will travel a total of 3,847 miles, cross-country, over a span of 52 days (which includes only seven days of rest).

John is from South Boston. We grew up together. Hung on the same corner. Drank out of the same 30-rack. Danced on the same Holy Cross hardwood after his Crusaders won the Patriot League. Sure, I was only a fan. He's the one who actually played four years of Division 1 college basketball at Holy Cross, graduating in 2005, and advancing to the NCAA Tournament twice during his collegiate career.

But the kid was a beast. That was my boy. Even though I didn't go to Holy Cross, how could I not rush the court as he punched his ticket into the Big Dance?

But as exciting as those NCAA Tournament berths were, and as much as I was in awe of his accomplishments, it's what John is about to do this summer, that is most inspiring.

John will follow in his father's footsteps and take a bicycle ride across the country, from San Francisco to Portsmouth, N.H. His dad, Jay Hurley, rode a bike from Los Angeles to Boston in 1990. The stories told from that trip have driven John to take part in a similar journey.

But what makes this bike ride even more special, is the fact that he'll be doing it in honor of his four aunts who have recently passed away, each before the age of 50. Two of his aunts lost grueling battles with lung cancer, and in honor of "The Farrell Sisters" he has raised more than $25,000 for the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF).

If you'd like to make a tax-deductible donation, it's not too late to do so. In fact, your donations are welcomed throughout his entire 52-day journey. Just click here, and be sure to write "John Hurley -- Bike Trip" in the "How did you hear about us?" or "Tribute" section of the LCRF donation page.

John will also keep everyone updated with a daily diary on his blog: America by Bicycle: My cross country challenge for charity.

Go get 'em Hurls!

Don't blame the refs

2010-05-27T17:45:00.008-04:00

Sure, the officiating in Wednesday night's Game 5 was brutal, but that wasn't the reason why Orlando forced a Game 6 back in Boston

Let's say those technical fouls weren't called, and nobody was ejected. Would the Celtics have ended the series?

Not the way they were playing.

For the second straight game, the C's just didn't have it. And that it starts with Rajon Rondo. Celtics fans can only hope his leg injury gets better, because without him at the top of his game, the Green may be in trouble.

Listen to Thursday's show in its entirety, as Boston Herald Celtics writer Dan Duggan joined me to break down the Celtics' Game 5 loss. And we both agree: this one's on the players, not the refs.

To listen to Thursday's show in its entirety, click here, or subscribe to "I'm Just Sayin" on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.

Time for a change

2010-05-20T16:06:00.006-04:00

The Bruins lacked that 'killer instinct' while suffering a historical second-round series loss to the Philadelphia Flyers in this year's playoffs, and you don't have to look any further than the B's captain when trying to figure out why

Zdeno Chara has one more year left on his contract with the Bruins, in which he'll make $7.5 million. He's the highest paid player on the team. He's the captain, the leader, and visibly, the largest specimen on the ice.

Problem is, the only thing guaranteed to show up next season is Chara's extra-large salary-cap hit. Everything else is in question, at least, it should be.

As the Bruins were searching to find that killer instinct in the last four games of the Philadelphia series in which they blew a 3-0 lead in both Game 7 and in the series itself, Chara's inability to lead by example was something only he could control.

After all, who's going to call out the captain?

Perhaps Chara shouldn't have the "C" on his chest. And if you're the Bruins, would you benefit even more by trading the defenseman before he enters the last year of his deal, freeing up both cap space and giving the "C" to a player who deserves it more than he does?

Chara was on the hot seat during Thursday's show. Listen in its entirety, by clicking here, or subscribing on iTunes.

For the best Boston sports analysis on the web, listen to I'm Just Sayin' on BlogTalkRadio.com weekdays at 1 p.m. ET.